Dispersed camping near Pomeroy, Washington centers around BLM lands and Army Corps of Engineers sites. The region features channeled scablands with basalt outcroppings and coulees carved by ancient floods. Elevations range from 600 to 1,000 feet along the Snake River, with surrounding plateaus reaching 2,500 feet. Winter temperatures typically drop to 20-30°F while summer daytime temperatures reach 90-100°F.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: Explore the unique scabland terrain on the 3-mile trail to Towell Falls at Escure Ranch / Rock Creek Recreation Area. "The hike itself was incredible and a bit primitive at points. Bring bug spray and maybe a machete lol," advises one visitor who encountered coyotes near the falls.
Stargazing: Take advantage of minimal light pollution for astronomy. A camper at Escure Ranch noted, "I setup camp on the road back during a new moon which was perfect for star gazing and astro photography." The area offers exceptional dark sky viewing with unobstructed horizons.
River activities: Float the Snake River or fish from shore. Pack appropriate water safety equipment as currents can be strong. The Red Bird Creek Trailhead offers a challenging 5+ mile hike with "major elevation change" down to the Snake River, according to a visitor.
What campers like
Historical exploration: Check out remnants of the past at abandoned ranch structures. "The ranch has an interesting history and it's fun to poke around the old structures," notes a winter visitor to Escure Ranch.
Wildlife observation: Listen for owls and watch for other wildlife. A camper at Red Bird Creek Trailhead reported "Owls calling throughout the evening." Coyotes are common in the area, especially at dusk.
Winter solitude: Visit during colder months for fewer crowds. "We visited in February and saw 4 or 5 people, but no one stayed the night except us," reports a camper who appreciated the off-season tranquility at Escure Ranch.
What you should know
Vehicle considerations: Access roads to many sites require appropriate clearance. "The last two miles driving in is a rough dirt road, and a vehicle with ground clearance is highly desirable," warns a visitor to Escure Ranch.
Wildlife awareness: Rattlesnakes are common during warm months. "The best time to visit is in the spring when the wildflowers are in bloom and before the RATTLESNAKES get populous," advises one experienced camper.
Resource planning: Most sites lack basic amenities. At Devil's Bench Recreation Area, expect "Large spot, with paved access right near the Dam, toilet, no service, 4 tables." Bring all necessary supplies as local stores have limited inventory.
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility options: Some areas accommodate diverse mobility needs. One reviewer noted that Escure Ranch "is very flat and would be reasonably accessible for someone using a wheelchair or with other mobility restrictions. The picnic tables are even accessible!"
River coves for safe swimming: Riparia offers protected areas for children to play in water. "There are a few little coves that are nice for kids to play in and great to stay out of the river current," notes a frequent visitor.
Educational opportunities: Teach children about unique geological features. The channeled scablands formed from massive Ice Age floods provide excellent science learning opportunities about erosion and geological history.
Tips from RVers
Water conservation: Plan carefully for dry camping without hookups. "We stayed here in the most shaded part of the campground with our Travel Trailer with a 50 gallon fresh water tank. It lasted the 4 of us the 5 day weekend," shared an RVer at Riparia.
Alternative routes: Avoid steep grades when towing. "I followed my GPS which took me off of Highway 26 and onto Old Highway 26. DON'T do this. Take Hay rd. Old HWY 26 will take you onto Hammer Grade Rd. This is NOT a fun road with a trailer," warns an RV camper.
Dust protection: Bring covers or tarps for equipment. "Your trailer, tow vehicle and anything in the bed is going to get dusty getting here and leaving," notes a camper about the gravel access roads to many sites.
